Belarus
Belarus is only known for UFC legend Andrei Arlovski. There are a couple of fighters from Belarus that piqued my interest however. Antonina Kuleshova (3-0) was the one I liked the most. Kuleshova is only 3-0 as a professional but she went 7-3 as an amateur. Also, as an amateur, Kuleshova competed in IMMAF and did very well. She’s put together very well being good in all areas. She’s a better grappler than anything as her jiu-jitsu and control stand out. On the feet she puts together her hands and kicks well. She’s good at throwing the right over top after a heavy outside leg kick. Also, Kuleshova has displayed good timing and good movement. Overall, it could take a few years but Kuleshova looks promising.
Belgium
Bolaji Oki just won on the last season of the Contender Series earning a contract representing Belgium. I believe we could see two more from Belgium on the Contender Series next season. The best fighter from the area in my opinion is Alain Van De Merckt (5-0). Merckt has fought at both light heavyweight and middleweight but has looked much better at middleweight. He’s a good athlete, and on the feet he’ll throw from both sides with a lot of power. His skillset shines more on the mat where he has four submissions. Merckt has been dominant with top control, ground and pound, and eventual fight-ending submissions. Watch out for Merckt because he can be signed to the UFC at any point.
Bolivia
The closest a fighter from Bolivia got to going to the UFC was Kevin Syler. He fought on the Contender Series in 2020 and lost and hasn’t fought since. Out goes Syler and in comes Robert Batte (3-0). Batte is still unproven with limited cage time but has looked exceptional. He’s light on his feet, explosive, hits hard, and throws a blistering one-two, and a power jab. His striking at the very least is something to be wary of.
